Last updated on 1 May 2026
MRI scan patient and self-employed construction worker Ollie, from Bath, had been struggling with persistent knee pain from his physically demanding job. Not able to risk being out of work, Ollie decided to take action and chose to bypass the 12-month NHS waiting list offered and chose a private MRI scan instead.
“Getting my knee assessed quickly meant it didn’t get any worse…I’m now pain-free and worry-free about the future!”
Ollie, MRI scan patient at Practice Plus Group Hospital, Emersons Green
Ollie says: “Doing nothing about the pain wasn’t an option. Caused by an old rugby injury and my physically demanding work, the pain was becoming worse by the day. My job relies on me being agile and able to lift heavy loads and get down on the floor. I was told I might have to wait over a year for an MRI scan just to assess my knee, with no timeframe for accessing any kind of fix. I was getting to the point where I was going to have to turn down work, which I couldn’t afford to do.
“My job relies on me being agile and being able to lift and get down on the floor. I was told I might have to wait over a year for an MRI scan (with the NHS). I was getting to the point where I was going to have to turn down work.”
Ollie, MRI scan patient at Practice Plus Group Hospital, Emersons Green
“I decided to seek a private consultation with Wellsoon from Practice Plus Group, and requested an evening appointment after work. This was another plus for me as I didn’t have to drop everything to fit around an NHS appointment with no flexibility. I was seen quickly at Practice Plus Group’s Emersons Green Hospital, Bristol, and referred for an MRI scan. They diagnosed me with knee tendonitis and booked me in to see a physio, who gave me strengthening exercises to do. Fortunately getting assessed quickly meant that my knee didn’t get any worse, or need surgery. I’m now pain-free at the end of a busy day and worry-free about the future!”
Bristol MRI scan FAQs
Where can I get a private MRI scan in Bristol?
Private MRI scans are available at Practice Plus Group Hospital, Emersons Green in Bristol. The hospital offers fast access to diagnostic imaging services, including MRI, ultrasound and x-ray, for patients who want quicker answers about pain, injury or ongoing symptoms.
How much does a private MRI scan cost at Emersons Green?
A private MRI scan for one body part costs £350 at Practice Plus Group Hospital, Emersons Green. Prices are also available for scans of two, three or four body parts if more than one area needs to be investigated.
How long is the waiting time for a private MRI scan?
Private MRI scans at Practice Plus Group are typically available within 1–2 weeks after enquiry. At Emersons Green, patients can benefit from referral to scan within two weeks, helping them get a diagnosis and next steps sooner.
How long does an MRI scan take?
An MRI scan of one body part usually takes around 10–20 minutes to complete. The scan uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the body’s tissues and bones.
How do I book a private MRI scan at Emersons Green?
You can self-refer for a private MRI scan at Practice Plus Group Hospital, Emersons Green, meaning you may not need a GP referral. You can book by completing the online form or calling 0117 906 1926. GPs, physiotherapists, osteopaths and chiropractors can also refer patients directly.
James Wood, Content Specialist
This article was co-written by Content Specialist, James Wood. Our Content Specialist, James, has been writing articles and blogs for Practice Plus Group since 2022. He has more than a decade of experience as a copywriter within a range of different backgrounds and works closely with medical professionals to deliver information that's easy-to-read and patient-focused. When he's not writing medical pieces, James is busy playing sports or pub quizzing.
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